Assistant coach Dan Hinote has informed the Blue Jackets that he won’t sign a contract extension with the rest of coach Todd Richards’ staff.

Hinote, citing a family matter, will move to Chicago this summer, he said. He declined to comment further.

“I have had a great time in Columbus, and I’ll always have fond memories of my time with the Blue Jackets,” Hinote said. “It’s been a privilege — a great experience — to be a part of this organization.”

After a nine-season NHL career with Colorado and St. Louis, along with stops in Europe, Hinote joined the Blue Jackets four seasons ago as the third assistant.

Hinote was promoted to second assistant two years ago, and he was due for a contract extension along with the other assistants when general manager Jarmo Kekalainen signed coach Todd Richards through 2017 last month.

Now, Kekalainen is accepting applications. The Blue Jackets will fill Hinote’s spot, and Kekalainen said they could hire two assistants if the right fit is found. Richards will have a role in the hiring process.

“I’m disappointed Dan won’t be continuing the work we’ve started here, but I understand his desire and need to put family matters first,” Richards said in a statement.

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